Even Dogs in the Wild

by Ian Rankin
Even Dogs in the Wild cover
Good Books rating 4.42
Crime, Mystery, Thriller/Suspense
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Paperback • £9.99
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  • ID: 9174
  • Added: 2025-12-23
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9781409159391
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2015-11-05
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Even Dogs in the Wild brings back Ian Rankin's iconic character, John Rebus, in a gripping tale that delves into the darkest corners of human instincts and desires. Rebus, unable to fully retire from his life as a cop, is pulled back into action when DI Siobhan Clarke asks for his help on a high-profile case. The investigation revolves around the death of a prominent lawyer, whose body is discovered alongside a menacing note. Meanwhile, Rebus's long-time adversary, Big Ger Cafferty, receives an identical note and a bullet through his window, suggesting a sinister connection between the two incidents. /n/n The novel explores the complex dynamics between Rebus and Cafferty, as well as the intricate web of crime and corruption that permeates Edinburgh. Rankin's expert storytelling and intricate plotting keep readers on the edge of their seats, making Even Dogs in the Wild a must-read for fans of crime fiction. The book's success is underscored by its status as a #1 Sunday Times bestseller, highlighting its widespread appeal and critical acclaim.

Reviews
Mum of Three World · 2023-04-07
brilliant 4.75

The characters and dialogue feel incredibly real, and the descriptions are vivid. It's another brilliant read from Ian Rankin.

The reviewer from Mum of Three World is thoroughly impressed with the realism of the characters and dialogue in this novel. The descriptions are vivid, painting a clear picture of the settings and scenarios. The reviewer finds the story to be another brilliant read from Ian Rankin, with a compelling narrative that keeps readers hooked. The characters are well-developed, and the dialogue feels incredibly real, making the story engaging and immersive.

Quick quotes

    All of the characters and dialogue seem so real.

    The description paints a really vivid picture.

    Another brilliant read from Ian Rankin.

Irresponsible Reader · 2019-07-08
great 4.00

The story explores the darkest corners of human instincts and desires, making it a compelling read. The characters are brought back in a way that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

The reviewer at Irresponsible Reader delves into the darker themes of the novel, praising Rankin's ability to explore the complexities of human nature. The story is described as a journey into the darkest corners of our instincts and desires, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read. The characters, particularly Rebus and Malcolm Fox, are brought back in a way that feels both nostalgic and fresh. The reviewer appreciates how Rankin manages to keep the story engaging while delving into the psychological depths of his characters.

Quick quotes

    Exploring the darkest corners of our instincts and desires.

    Bringing back Ian Rankin's greatest characters in a story that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

    A compelling and thought-provoking read.

The Guardian · Mark Lawson · 2015-10-23
excellent 4.50

The book delivers playful dialogue and tangy banter, showcasing Rankin's ability to keep readers engaged. The characters are well-developed and the plot is gripping.

Mark Lawson highlights how Ian Rankin's latest novel is a masterclass in crime writing. The dialogue is sharp and witty, with a banter that keeps the pages turning. The characters, particularly Rebus, are brought to life with such depth that readers feel invested in their journeys. The plot is gripping, with enough twists and turns to keep even the most seasoned crime fiction fans on the edge of their seats. Lawson also praises Rankin's ability to maintain credibility as his characters age, making the story feel authentic and grounded.

Quick quotes

    Playful dialogue, peppered with tangy banter and beefy one-liners.

    Rankin's ability to keep readers guessing until the end.

    The characters are well-developed and the plot is gripping.

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